Spyderco Civilian Knife Review

by Landon Hawkins | Last Updated: 10/25/2017

Spyderco is a pioneer maker of pocket knives. They started out to give common quality knives, but their experience, craftsmanship and patented designs took them to an entirely new level. They started manufacturing the best tactical knives. Civilian is none like any other knives from Spyderco.

This weapon knife can come in handy from saving a person’s life as well as defending oneself from an unexpected life-threatening situation. Spyderco’s civilian will be our favorite “non-fancy” defense knife. This small, powerful knife can cause just the right amount of damage we wanted to.

Pros

here is a whole lot of things to put in this list. The main would be, the completely serrated blade from tip to handle. Other tactical knives has only partial serration. The locking mechanisms and the company’s trademark “Spydey Hole” is a pros compared with other models in market.

Cons

We couldn’t find much of a negatives for this pocket knife, however the Stainless Steel used is pretty much of low grade for the price tag the knife holds. The tip of the knife proved to be weak in few cases, this creates a bad impression for our “Civilian”.

Spyderco Civilian, specs!

Blade length: is 4.125inch (105mm)

Knife Overall Length: is 9.188inch (233mm)

Knife length when closed: is 5.188inch (132mm)

Total Weight: is 4.75ounces (134gm)

Materials used in the blade: is VG-10 steel

To manufacture such a lethal knife, the company must require Government permissions. But Spyderco’s reputation got itself a request from government to make such knives. Yes that’s right, sometime around 1990s a dedicated branch of U.S Law Enforcement agency approached Spyderco to manufacture a knife that could be used by their undercover agents.

These officers who mingle themselves as commoners, face life-threatening situations when on a field work. These officers were not allowed to use firearms to avoid suspicion, however knife was an option. Hence Spyderco was asked to design and make a knife that could prove to be life saving for these officers, thus Civilian came to be. The design was successful enough, that the company rolled out a trainer version for the general public.

The Blade

The civilian features a patented reverse S shaped blade, this ergonomical design gives a perfect edge while using it for self-defense. The VG-10 blade used in this knife is capable of cutting through most of the things, however the short size doesn’t allow certain methods of cutting. This VG-10 stainless steel is known for its sharpness and strength. Coupled with the knife’s design for tactical use, the blade is razor sharp and is deadly. That’s why this knife is not recommended for general purpose or everyday usage. The blade can be made even sharper with tools, but it’s not necessary as the blade doesn’t lose its sharpness soon. The micro thin tip is sharp enough to pierce the outer coat –denim and then penetrate the flesh. The blade’s deployment is rocket fast, which is needed in most situations, it’s better then the Spyderco Byrd Cara Cara2 pocket knife.

The Handle

The Black G-10 handle is a real fit for the blade, making a perfect flawless product. The handle comes with curves at right place making it safer for the person hold it while using for defense. The textured surface on the handle gives a proper grip, even while having wet hands or while wearing gloves. The sleek design of the handle makes the knife to fit inside the pocket without making impression on the outside. The handle also comes with two position clip that helps in discreet carry. When the knife is closed, the product gives a comfortable feel as if it was designed for our palm, concealing the knife inside. The handle feels almost identical to the Buck 110FG.

The Locking Mechanism

The knife, which was designed to be used in most dangerous situation also comes with safe locking mechanism that doesn’t allow the blade to close itself while in a combat. The locker provided is stronger than the lockers that features in other Spyderco knives. The washer holds the blade tight to the handle and provides smooth deployment of knife, also while closing. Great pocket knife as featured on our best EDC knife guide.

Our verdict on the Spyderco Civilian

This knife is clearly made for self-defense and for no other reason. People buying Spyderco Civilian for any other purpose other than self-defense are paying money for getting hurt. It is against the law to use this knife in certain state. But the knife used for the right purpose can save someone’s life. Even people without any kind of training can do a lot of damage. The knife is designed to cut deeper and go deeper. However this Civilian model available for general purpose slightly differs from the military model. But the company kept most of the design and function unchanged to attract customers. This knife is suitable for all kinds of people living in a dangerous neighborhood, or indulged in business that poses threat to their life or anyone else’s. For other knife lovers this piece of art will add extra beauty in the showcase.